Travel Before You Run Out of Time
In the summer of 2021 I visited Egypt For 12 days! Amidst the pandemic I actually lucked out because I was able to see a lot of the most popular destinations without a flood of other tourists! July is one of the hottest months in Egypt but I didn’t let that stop me…I can handle a bit of heat. If you are sensitive to heat then I would definitely suggest visiting during the winter months (December -March). Egypt did not dissapointed, I did not feel unsafe at any point during my trip but then again I did not steer away at night or go anywhere uncharted. Although the food was a bit rough for me personally, (heavy bread based diet, dry and cold drinks were a rarity) Egypt has been one of my favorite destinations and I would go 100 times over!! Thanks to my amazing tour guide Samar I did not miss a beat in Egypt she thought me so many things about the history, the culture and we even became great friends!
Here are my 6 MUST-DOS in Egypt
Hatshepsut’s Temple
Grab a hat and some sunscreen because this Queen’s Temple is directly facing the sun at all times! Despite the insane temperatures, Hatshepsut’s Temple is one of my favorite destinations in Egypt and because it is so hot it’s usually not as busy during the day. Oh and you will definitely be getting your steps in because this temple contains 2 levels and a reasonable long staircase to get to the first level. Located in Luxor, the cost to view the temple was 50 Egyptian pounds which is about $6 USD. There was just something so inspiring about Hatshepsut’s story. As the only heir of King Thutmose I (1506–1493 BC), she was one of two female Pharaohs, ruling for over to 20 years! She even identified as a male and was depicted male in her Stone portraits to gain respect of the people, Girl power! She lived to be 50 years old and to me she comes across as woman who didn’t let anything get in her way. If you Would like to see a video of my experience there please check out the YouTube link below.
Valley of the Kings
Right on the other side of Hatshepsut’s Temple is the Valley of the Kings. Also located in Luxor, The valley of the Kings has a whopping 63 Tombs and chambers. A ticket for 100 EGP ($11 USD) will get you into 3 chambers of your choice but keep in mind that some chambers like those of Tutankhamun, Ay and Ramses VI will cost extra. I spent about 30-45 minutes in each chamber indulging all of what they have to offer but be aware some of them contain steep and slippery like steps and you may need to hold onto a rail. The Valley of the Kings aka Valley of the Gates of the Kings, was just discovered in 1922 by a man named Howard Carter. It’s offers Breath taking exhibits Including King Tut’s remains which is a once in a lifetime experience, I’ll have to let you see for yourself!
Abu Simbel Temples
When I think of Ancient Egypt I think of places like Abu Simbel, located in Abu Simbel, Aswan Governorate. I consider it a two for one because there are two breathtaking temples that you can view and they are massive! These temples were discovered in 1813 by a man named Johann Ludwig Burckhardtspent, they were relocated in 1964 and that is sadly why one of the statues is broken. I spent about 45 minutes in each temple venturing into the chambers and viewing the Scriptures on the walls, I honestly didn’t wanna leave. If you would like to see a video of my exploration please click the link below.
Luxor Temple
Luxor Temple is unlike many of the other temples in Egypt because it didn’t celebrate only one God or depiction of a pharaoh but it is potentially where many pharaohs were crowned. Commissioned by Rammesses II, Luxor Temple was built in 1400 BC and looks amazing in the early evening when all the lights are shining. I spent about two hours there and could have been there all night!
Go Inside A Pyramid
There are five pyramids, that I know of, where tourists are able to enter including all three of the Pyramids of Giza. I went into the pyramid of Sneferu aka the bent pyramid and let me tell you it was quite the thrill. Actually I was pretty scared, some pyramids have a guide already and he just left me unattended and there was no one else in there! The pyramids are really dark inside. I Remember smelling sulfer and was led to believe that it was due to all the Mummifications that took place… Creepy! Some are going to say that going into the pyramids is not as exciting as going into the Tombs at The Valley of the Kings and they are entitled to their opinion! Me? I think that going into at least one pyramid will definitely be worth it. Take caution thought because the entrance is often long, narrows, steep and dark! If you would like to see me shaking in my boots and exploring this pyramid then check out this link below.
Karnak Temple complex
The Karnak Temple is the largest building dedicated to religious purposes ever. It includes the Great Hypostyle Hall which Consist of 134 pillars that are upwards of 70 feet each and cover an entire acre of land. This Temple is one of the most popular exhibits in Egypt and definitely one of my favorites, I could have pitched a tent and stay there all night if it were allowed.
Conclusion
There are many other places and excursions throughout Egypt that are definitely worth the adventure. Some honorable mentions are visiting the city of Alexandria, taking a hot air balloon over Luxor, taking a Nile River Cruise, visiting the land of Nubia and The Temple of Isis in Philae. If you want my best advice for Egypt, I would suggest hiring a reputable tour guide because they know all the ins and outs! Also note that the Cairo international airport can be quite hectic and fast paced. When you hire a tour guide they can help you through the airport process including getting a visa which you will need, it was $25 paid in cash when I went so you want to make sure you’re prepared for that. Also local merchants can be quite aggressive, they often don’t take no for an answer the first time. Me? I like to bargain and play hardball as well, especially if I really want one of the souvenirs. If a stranger is offering to do something nice for you like take a picture or show you a “better view” they will likely ask you for money afterwards. All in all, dealing with the hustlers and hagglers is a small price to pay for an amazing,unforgettable adventure and I would suggest anyone to go to Egypt at least once!
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